Dig Deeper
The writer of Hebrews lists Gideon as a hero of
faith (Hebrews 11:32). We are first introduced to Gideon in Judges 6 as a
humble farmer living during a time when Israel is being oppressed by the
Midianites. Nationally, Israel, having done “evil in the sight of the Lord, is experiencing deep decline.
Personally, Gideon sees himself inadequate of the call God has placed on him
(Judges 6:15). Encountering the Angel of the Lord
Gideon is strengthened in faith and leads his people in victory over their
oppressors.
Judges 5 concludes, “And the land was peaceful 40
years” (Judges 5:31b). Read Judges 4 and 5. How might growing up in the shadow
of these “glory days” and hearing stories of the conquests of Deborah and Barak
shaped Gideon’s thoughts of himself being called by the Lord?
Gideon responds to the Angel of the Lord, “Look, my family is the weakest in
Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my father’s house.” (Judges 6:15) What
insights do the following scriptures provide for God choosing someone like
Gideon?
Genesis 37:4--
1 Samuel 16:6-13--
1 Corinthians 1:27-28--
2 Corinthians 12:9-11--
Compare Gideon’s encounter with the Angel of the Lord with similar encounters by others in
Genesis 16:13; Exodus 3:2-6 ; Exodus 19:20-21 ; and Judges 13:20-22. Who is the
Angel of the Lord? (Use a Study
Bible or Bible Dictionary for additional insights.)
Read Judges 6-8. How do you observe Gideon’s faith
being strengthened?
Application
What do you identify as areas of weakness in your
life? How might God use these weakness(es) in a big way? How is the Holy Spirit
leading you to strengthen your faith?
Memorize This
Hebrews
11:1-Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the
conviction of things not seen. © ESV
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